The Republican race so far has been topsy-turvy. Rick Santorum won Iowa. Mitt Romney won New Hampshire and Florida. Newt Gingrich won South Carolina. Ron Paul didn't win anything. The race so far has not indicated a clear Republican leader, but I believe that might have changed with Florida - a change brought about by Romney's huge advertising campaign.

In order to keep my national certification as a modest and much-beloved columnist, I am required to submit annually a "state of the column" message. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please stand and applaud if you hear something that floats your boat or look bored if you don't. You may be on television.

Day 10 (Monday, Jan. 30): Much of what we do in the Legislature is related to preparation, and this morning was a perfect example: I was at the Capitol at 8 a.m. to review the criminal justice appropriations budget with the Senate budget analyst.

February 08, 2012|
By State Sen. Buddy Carter
Special to the Courier
|Opinion

President Barack Obama delivered his third State of the Union address during a joint session of Congress last week. These are always inspiring events with the House and Senate united in welcoming the president, his cabinet, the justices of the Supreme Court and leaders of our nation's military.

February 06, 2012|
By U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston
Special to the Courier
|Opinion

The 2012 General Assembly just completed its 14th legislative day this week. We began the week by passing SB 223, also known as the Georgia Government and Accountability Act. If enacted, this legislation would create a joint legislative sunset advisory committee to oversee the effectiveness of government operations and maximize every taxpayer dollar. The passage of this legislation provides a clear solution in addressing how efficient government should operate.

February 06, 2012|
By State Sen. Tommie Williams
Special to the Courier
|Opinion

You might think that DUIs would be on the downswing in Georgia, thanks to harsher penalties, increased public enlightenment and the efforts of groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Students Against Destructive Decisions.

I usually pick on the federal government for doing stupid things, but stupidity can be found in all forms of government, including international. It is hard to believe that intelligent people do such stupid things, but it keeps happening. Here are some examples - besides last summer's Midway lemon stand debacle.